Statement From Avril Stanley, Founding Director, Body&Soul Festival

May 8, 2020

This is a challenging time for everyone, including the Body&Soul family, and we were heartbroken to confirm that Body&Soul 2020 cannot go ahead due to updated Covid-19 restrictions guidelines that were issued by the government.

While the impact of this decision creates ripples throughout our creative community spread across the globe, Body&Soul’s top priority lies in keeping its artists, attendees, staff and extended community healthy and safe, and we absolutely respect the government’s decision and the steps it must take to protect everyone amidst this unprecedented crisis.

Having shelved an incredible decade of an ever-evolving festival landscape, we were due to celebrate our 11th edition this Summer Solstice weekend across the new artisan food trails in the Castle’s Walled Gardens, extensive wellness sanctuary space, immersive art installations, inspiring visionary talks and one of our favourite line ups yet, including Metronomy, Róisín Murphy, King Kong Company and Princess Nokia.

I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to all the local communities who every year welcome us with open arms. I would also like to acknowledge all the residents who allow us the freedom to create our magical event. We will miss seeing you all this year and being a part of your community.

While we may not be able to gather in person this year, we are with you in spirit. We’re not going anywhere.

In the meantime, mind one another. Together, we’ll make it through to the other side of this, slowly but surely.